Sermon Central
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The Rise Of Apostasy In The Last Days Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Apr 3, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Apostasy is a reality that must not be ignored. Many are falling away from the faith, embracing doctrines that contradict the truth of Scripture. The enemy is actively working to deceive many, but as believers, we must stand firm in the Word of God and be discerning of the times.
THE RISE OF APOSTASY IN THE LAST DAYS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Supporting Texts: Matthew 24:10-12, 1 Timothy 4:1, Jude 1:3-4, 2 Thessalonians 2:3
INTRODUCTION
The Bible warns that in the last days, many will fall away from the faith, embracing false doctrines and rejecting the truth of God's Word. Apostasy, which refers to the deliberate abandonment of one’s faith, is a sign of the end times. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to Timothy, prophesied that people would no longer endure sound doctrine but would turn to teachings that suit their desires. This reality is becoming more evident in our generation.
Apostasy is not merely a passive drifting away from the faith but an active rejection of God's truth. Many today prefer teachings that entertain rather than convict, messages that align with their personal desires rather than the Word of God. This growing trend is leading to moral decay and a weakened church, where truth is compromised for acceptance and popularity.
As believers, we must be vigilant and remain steadfast in the faith. The Scriptures command us to contend earnestly for the faith and to uphold the truth in love. It is our responsibility to recognize the signs of apostasy and take a stand for the Gospel of Christ in these perilous times.
1. THE REJECTION OF SOUND DOCTRINE
In the last days, many will reject sound doctrine in favor of teachings that align with their desires.
a) Love for truth will diminish – People will reject biblical teachings in favor of human philosophies (2 Timothy 4:3).
b) False teachers will arise – Many will follow deceitful doctrines that contradict the Word of God (1 Timothy 4:1).
c) Biblical warnings will be ignored – The warnings given by Jesus and the apostles concerning false teachings will be dismissed (Matthew 24:11-12).
d) Emotional appeal over scriptural truth – People will seek messages that excite their emotions rather than challenge them to righteous living (2 Thessalonians 2:3).
e) Biblical Example: King Ahab and false prophets who prophesied lies to satisfy his desires (1 Kings 22:6-8).
2. THE RISE OF FALSE TEACHERS AND DECEPTIVE DOCTRINES
Apostasy is fueled by false teachers who twist the truth of God's Word to deceive many.
a) Deceptive signs and wonders – Many will be misled by miracles rather than truth (Matthew 24:24).
b) Distortion of grace – False teachers will preach grace without repentance (Jude 1:4).
c) Compromising the Gospel for popularity – Some preachers will dilute the message of Christ to gain acceptance (Galatians 1:6-9).
d) Perversion of the message of prosperity – The true riches of Christ will be overshadowed by materialism (1 Timothy 6:5).
e) Biblical Example: The serpent deceiving Eve by twisting God's command (Genesis 3:1-5).
3. THE FALLING AWAY OF MANY BELIEVERS
As deception increases, many will depart from the faith due to various reasons.
a) Persecution and trials – Some will abandon their faith when faced with suffering (Matthew 13:20-21).
b) The love of the world – Materialism and worldly pleasures will draw many away (1 John 2:15-17).
c) Spiritual laziness – Many will neglect prayer, Bible study, and fellowship (Hebrews 10:25).
d) Moral compromise – Immorality and sinful lifestyles will be accepted (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
e) Biblical Example: Demas forsaking Paul because he loved the world (2 Timothy 4:10).
4. THE URGENCY OF DISCERNMENT AND SPIRITUAL WATCHFULNESS
Believers must remain vigilant and discerning in these last days.
a) Test every spirit – Do not accept every teaching without verifying it against Scripture (1 John 4:1).
b) Hold fast to sound doctrine – Stay grounded in biblical truth (Titus 1:9).
c) Be led by the Holy Spirit – Depend on God’s guidance, not human wisdom (John 16:13).
d) Be watchful and prayerful – Stay alert to the signs of apostasy (Matthew 26:41).
e) Biblical Example: The Berean Christians who examined the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11).
5. OVERCOMING APOSTASY AND STANDING FIRM IN THE FAITH
To withstand the deception of the last days, we must be firmly rooted in Christ.
a) Deepen your relationship with Christ – Abide in Him through prayer and His Word (John 15:5-7).
b) Put on the whole armor of God – Stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:10-18).
c) Commit to a Bible-believing church – Surround yourself with godly influences (Hebrews 10:24-25).
d) Preach the truth with boldness – Defend and proclaim the Gospel fearlessly (2 Timothy 4:2).
e) Biblical Example: Apostle Paul, who fought the good fight and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7-8).
CONCLUSION
Apostasy is a reality that must not be ignored. Many are falling away from the faith, embracing doctrines that contradict the truth of Scripture. The enemy is actively working to deceive many, but as believers, we must stand firm in the Word of God and be discerning of the times. It is our responsibility to hold fast to the truth, contend for the faith, and warn others of the dangers of false teachings.
